GEOARCHAEO

From Trowels to Trace Elements.

 We provide end-to-end heritage solutions. Whether you need standard field mapping or advanced chemical characterization, we bridge the gap between the dirt and the data.

Archaeological and MAterial Science Services

Lithic Provenance Analyses

Where did these stone tools come from? What are they composed of? We apply cutting-edge analytical techniques and sophisticated statistical approaches to ensure you have the most confidence in your results as possible. Ask us about the nitty-gritty of our analytical approach, we’re happy to nerd-out with you.

Lithic Cataloguing and Analysis

What is the story told by these stone tools? What was going on at the site? How does that fit into the larger regional patterns?

We bring custom database design, assemblage cataloguing, statistical analyses, use-wear assessments, and the top-quality imaging to bring out the narrative from the stones.

Lithic Material Type Analysis

What do I call this rock? Not all black, fine-grained rocks are basalt. Not all countertops are made of granite. We use petrological and geochemical frameworks to quantitatively provide the rock type names your lithics (or kitchen counters) deserve.

Elemental Analysis (Solids)

What are my samples made of, and are they safe to handle? We provide non-destructive analyses for the concentrations of select elements between Mg and U, including heavy metals, as well as material type interpretations for pretty much any and all solid materials. We can come to you, or you can send us your samples!

Geospatial, Earth Science, and Field Services

GIS and Cartography

All your mapping needs in one place. Whether you’re looking for report graphics, maps for academic publication, field materials, or anything else, we’re ready to craft the maps you need.

Also, all your landscape analysis needs in the same place! From multivariate predictive models to paleochannels to (cost) path analyses to placenames we’ve got your landscape analysis needs covered.

Aerial Survey

Let’s get your project off the ground. We use state-of-the-art drone-based LiDAR and digital photogrammetry to create high-resolution maps and images of archaeological sites and landscapes. Whether you need to survey a large area, identify subtle landscape features, or monitor changes over time, we can provide you with accurate and reliable data to support your research and management goals.

Geological and Geoarchaeological Mapping

What to know which rocks or sediments are where? Want to know why that’s the case? We combine laboratory analysis, field observation, and geospatial interpretation to map and explain the geological and geoarchaeological context of your study area or archaeological site. This includes stratigraphic description and interpretation to help you understand depositional history and site formation processes.

Field Support

Let’s put our boots on the ground. We bring decades of combined field experience across a wide range of landscapes and regulatory settings, from Belgium and Hawaii to Idaho and the Pacific Northwest. Whether you need help with sampling, mapping, logistics, documentation, or general project support, we provide steady and adaptable field assistance that keeps your work moving forward with confidence.

Training and MEntoring Services

Lithic Technology Workshops and Training

Want to build your team’s capacity? We offer on-site training in lithic identification, cataloguing, flintknapping, artifact illustration and photography, lithic sourcing, and material type identifications. So, let us help level up your team’s skills!

Lithic PRovenance Workshops and Training

Want to source your own rocks? We offer in-person and remote training on how sourcing works, why collecting data is only the first step, and how to conduct robust, reproducible, and refined sourcing outcomes for lithics using the SourceXplorer framework.

Geographical Information System Training

Want to make your own maps? Learn the basics of mapping and landscape analysis using free, open-source software (QGIS) in a workshop tailored to your specific needs and projects.

Student, Intern, and Technician Mentorship

Want to grow your team’s skills with expert support and guidance? We offer practical mentorship for students and early career technicians in (geo)archaeology, archaeological science, archaeochemistry, geochemistry/petrology, and geospatial work.

Scope of Work and Professional Practice Limitations for Earth Science Services

Purpose and Nature of Services

GeoArchaeo Research provides scientific, observational, and descriptive geoscience services. Our work supports a range of knowledge users, including archaeological and environmental researchers, Indigenous governments, community organizations, and other groups engaged in stewardship, governance, and evidence‑based decision‑making.

Our activities include, but are not limited to:

  • Scientific reporting for research, governance, and cultural or environmental knowledge contexts
  • Field sampling of sediments, soils, rocks, and related materials
  • Descriptive geological, geomorphological, and environmental mapping
  • Geochemical, sedimentological, and mineralogical analysis
  • GIS‑based mapping, spatial analysis, and data visualization
  • Compilation, integration, and descriptive synthesis of publicly available and directly observed data

Non‑Reserved Practice

The services provided by GeoArchaeo Research fall within non‑reserved geoscience practice as defined under the Professional Governance Act (PGA) and the Engineers and Geoscientists BC (EGBC) regulatory framework. Our work does not involve professional judgment or advice that could affect public safety, the environment, or property, and is not intended to constitute professional geoscience practice.

Exclusions and Limitations

GeoArchaeo Research does not provide:

  • Geological hazard or risk assessments
  • Engineering geology or geotechnical evaluations
  • Groundwater or mineral resource assessments
  • Evaluations of economic viability or development potential
  • Professional geoscience opinions, recommendations, or certifications
  • Interpretive products intended to inform regulatory decisions, permitting, or land‑use planning
  • Any work that constitutes the reserved practice of professional geoscience under the PGA

All deliverables produced by GeoArchaeo Research are scientific and descriptive in nature and are not ‘professional geoscience’ documents.

Reserved Practice

Any activity involving risk‑bearing interpretation, professional judgment, or advice relied upon for decisions affecting health, safety, the environment, or property must be completed by a licensed Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo) or an appropriately regulated professional.

Use of Information

GeoArchaeo Research is responsible for the accuracy and integrity of the scientific information we produce. However, we do not control or assume responsibility for how clients or third parties may subsequently use, interpret, or apply this information in governance, planning, or decision‑making contexts.